In "Crisis of Confidence," Carter outlines what he considers to be American principles—principles like hard work, moral perseverance, and religious faith. He credits these values as being responsible for all of the baller achievements America has made, achievements like surviving the Great Depression and putting a man on the moon. (That's one small step for American principles, one giant step for awesome feats).
Carter throws a lasso around these bad boys and hogties them to patriotism. In short, he equates working hard, demonstrating moral perseverance, and having religious faith with being patriotic. He makes them, or at least tries to make them, one and the same.
So when he talks about a decline in these values, he's actually talking about a whole lot more. He's talking about a decline in patriotism too, and a lack of confidence in the direction of the country.
Questions About Principles
- What does Carter think true American principles are? Do you agree with him?
- What evidence does Carter use to support his understanding of American values?
- Describe the change Carter believes is taking place in American culture.
- What tone do you think Carter creates in his criticism of changing American culture/values? Do you think this was the most effective way to express his point? Why or why not?
Chew on This
President Carter's understanding of American values is naïve at best and at worst, misinformed.
In addressing the nation, President Carter's criticisms come across as too insensitive to American struggles and are therefore ineffective in their effort to promote real, substantive change.